The final countdown for Windows 7

For those of us who have returned to work after the Christmas break, discovering there is only a limited amount of time remaining for support for Windows 7 can be problematic.

A new year, means a new start. However, for those of us who have returned to work after the Christmas break, discovering there is only a limited amount of time remaining for support for Windows 7 can be problematic.

As of the 14th January 2020, Microsoft will no longer be providing the technical support for the operating platform.

However, you don't need to panic. Just because the support from Microsoft isn't there, doesn't mean your machine will stop working.

It does mean however, that your systems are more prone to being infiltrated by cyber criminals, as the technical support will no longer aid you in patching any security issues you may have. Criminals may also start to target viruses and ransomware at Windows 7 due to the known vulnerabilities.

Jennifer Williams, Head of IT and Security Specialist at Lawyer Checker and The Practical Vision Network, said:

"It's always tempting to continue to use old software, especially on computers that are infrequently used. However, the impact of exposing our business in this way is considerable. It isn't worth scrimping on the cost."

Computer World, an IT publisher estimates that, when the end-of-life date arrives, one in four PCs will still be running Windows 7. This figure will be higher in industries slower to embrace IT developments and the legal sector is likely to be one of these industries affected.

So, what should I do?

It is recommended that you update your operating system to Windows 10, or an alternative operating system, as soon as possible.

In 2017, the NHS was targeted by the Wannacry malware attack as a result of not updating their operating system from Windows XP to a newer version. The Department of Health said that the cyber attack cost the NHS £92m.

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